Ok, we’re mostly kidding. However, we genuinely believe that the first rule of adding or updating the ceiling lights in your home should be to just say no to the dreaded basic flushmount light. We all know which lights these are –the ubiquitous dome of glass with its orb or pointed fastener placed smack dab in the centre of the light.
While these lights are highly affordable and often come in multi-packs, they have absolutely no character, and are unmistakably anatomical in shape. Unfortunately, this resemblance has netted them a rather unfortunate nickname.
There is an entire world of flushmount lighting on the market that combines style and function for every budget out there. This means that there is no reason to even allow one of these hohum light to enter your home …at all …what so ever. Here are some fantastic alternatives that not only look great, but are a treat to your budget as well:
If you have the space to do so, you may want to consider replacing your flushmount with something else. If you only have a bit of room, try adding a semi-flush. If you have higher ceilings or if the light is to be placed over a table, bed you could go with a chandelier.
Semi-Flush
A semi-flush light offers middle ground between a flushmount and a chandelier. They typically hang somewhere between 4” to 8” from the ceiling, and make a great option single story foyers, hallways and family rooms, where people need to be able to comfortable walk beneath the light –something that isn’t always possible with a chandelier.
Here are some of our favourite semi-flush options.
- Lamps Plus | 2. Amazon | 3. Lowes
Chandeliers
Dramatic, statement-making, and always the centre of attention, chandeliers are much more pieces of art than just simple lighting. In the last few years we’ve seen chandeliers migrate outside of their traditional placements in dining rooms and foyers and into bedrooms, bathrooms and even laundry rooms.
When adding a chandelier, ensure that its hung at an appropriate height for its location. Here’s a chart to help you hand your chandelier like a pro:
These numbers assume an 8-foot ceiling, and measurements are from the lowest part of the chandelier.
| Chandelier Location | Placement |
| Over a Table | 30-36 inches from the table |
| Over a Bed | 7 feet above the floor |
| Living Room (or anyplace where people need to walk under the light) | 7 Feet above the floor |
Here are some of our favourite looks:
- YLighting | 2. Shades of Light | 3. Bellacor
Planning a lighting upgrade as part of a home renovation? Start by speaking with a professional with experience in lighting design. This might be your contractor, interior designer, or an electrician. Ask them about all of the options available and the best ways to make use of them. For example, they may suggest that your new lighting scheme includes accent lighting to highlight certain areas and objects that you as the homeowner may not have considered. They can also discuss how different lighting choices can impact your home’s energy efficiency.
Need some help with lighting installation or design? Browse the listing of electrical contractors here on eieihome.com.
